Janathel Shaw

Artist Statement

I see my work as a vehicle in conveying a narrative or idea. The work in this exhibit, although intimate in scope, hopefully touches on national and/or universal themes. They include equality, self actualization, anti-bigotry, spiritual examination, and feminist distress.

My ceramic sculptures also reveal my true love for the medium. I love the malleable quality and “messiness” of clay, which lends itself to the height of expressionism. It’s an art form that is never given its’ rightful due as a “fine art medium”; too often relegated to craft”.

My pieces are bold, weighty, a little disconcerting and reflective of what is occurring in our society; especially from an African-American scope. I’ve often been told to “not preach” through my art. Hell, I see myself as a “Griot” of sorts. It is my aim, on occasion, to emote and provide “food for thought”. I envision education as one of the roles that visual art can fulfill. Many of my heroes such as: Elizabeth Catlett, Robert Arneson, Frida Kahlo, and Augusta Savage embodied this exemplar.

I invite you to enjoy my work for its content and visual honesty. If this seems a little saucy, do forgive me. I like a little hot sauce with my meals.

Janathel Shaw

Janathel’s works underscore concerns in Black America, notably, single parenting, spirituality, racism and racial pride. She uses texture, drawing, symbolism and high relief to effectively express and narrate through her work. Her sculptures have been known to evoke strong emotions in viewers.

Ms. Shaw has an extensive history and has been cited in numerous publications: Studio Potter, The Washington Post, The Baltimore Sun, the Washington Times, The City Paper (Baltimore), The Washington Afro-American Newspaper, Ceramics Monthly and Ceramic Review.

She received her Masters of Fine Art degree in 1996 and her Bachelors of Science in 1989 from the George WashingtonUniversity . An associate in Art degree was earned from Prince George ’s Community College in 1987. She has won several sculpture and painting awards. She has also been awarded grants to curate exhibitions and provide workshops for elementary and secondary schools. Ms. Shaw currently teaches at Friendly High Schools in Fort Washington, Maryland.

Janathel Shaw

Artist Statement

I see my work as a vehicle in conveying a narrative or idea. The work in this exhibit, although intimate in scope, hopefully touches on national and/or universal themes. They include equality, self actualization, anti-bigotry, spiritual examination, and feminist distress.

My ceramic sculptures also reveal my true love for the medium. I love the malleable quality and “messiness” of clay, which lends itself to the height of expressionism. It’s an art form that is never given its’ rightful due as a “fine art medium”; too often relegated to craft”.

My pieces are bold, weighty, a little disconcerting and reflective of what is occurring in our society; especially from an African-American scope. I’ve often been told to “not preach” through my art. Hell, I see myself as a “Griot” of sorts. It is my aim, on occasion, to emote and provide “food for thought”. I envision education as one of the roles that visual art can fulfill. Many of my heroes such as: Elizabeth Catlett, Robert Arneson, Frida Kahlo, and Augusta Savage embodied this exemplar.

I invite you to enjoy my work for its content and visual honesty. If this seems a little saucy, do forgive me. I like a little hot sauce with my meals.

Janathel Shaw

Janathel’s works underscore concerns in Black America, notably, single parenting, spirituality, racism and racial pride. She uses texture, drawing, symbolism and high relief to effectively express and narrate through her work. Her sculptures have been known to evoke strong emotions in viewers.

Ms. Shaw has an extensive history and has been cited in numerous publications: Studio Potter, The Washington Post, The Baltimore Sun, the Washington Times, The City Paper (Baltimore), The Washington Afro-American Newspaper, Ceramics Monthly and Ceramic Review.

She received her Masters of Fine Art degree in 1996 and her Bachelors of Science in 1989 from the George WashingtonUniversity . An associate in Art degree was earned from Prince George ’s Community College in 1987. She has won several sculpture and painting awards. She has also been awarded grants to curate exhibitions and provide workshops for elementary and secondary schools. Ms. Shaw currently teaches at Friendly High Schools in Fort Washington, Maryland.